Welcome to Build Smarter!
Join us at Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies for engaging in-person seminars designed for building professionals who want to learn, connect, and grow. This series combines practical insights with opportunities to network with peers and industry experts.
Get ready to learn from Foster Lyons - Building Scientist, Engineer, & All Around Troubleshooter for Architectural/Construction/Engineered Projects!
To RSVP, visit our Eventbrite page and RSVP for as many seminars as you’d like!
The Build Smarter Lineup
Stucco: OK, but I Wish You Wouldn’t
Thursday, November 20th 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Stucco may look appealing, but in Fairfield County - especially near the waterfront - it often creates more problems than it solves. With our climate, rainfall, and common construction practices, stucco failures are all too familiar. In this seminar, Foster breaks down the different types of stucco systems, the common pitfalls in installation, and how to design durable cladding solutions that can stand up to local conditions. You’ll gain practical insights into when stucco makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
You’ll learn when stucco makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes - all while enjoying complimentary Sangria and Charcuterie, plus a red and white wine tasting featuring Domaine Bois de Boursan Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Domaine le Sang des Cailloux.
Learning Objectives:
Differentiate between various cladding systems often referred to as stucco.
Identify construction methods that create problems in both traditional and modern stucco cladding.
Recognize environmental conditions that require compliance with new building code requirements for stucco.
Design stucco cladding systems that are both functional and durable.
A Big Thank You To Our Sponsor!
Past Events
Building Disasters - Don’t Do This
Thursday, September 18th 4:30 - 7:00 PM
Kick off the series with an insider’s look at common local design and building mistakes that can lead to major, systemic problems. Foster Lyons will break down what goes wrong, why it happens, and how to prevent these costly issues. For situations where remedies are possible, he’ll also share effective solutions.
Enjoy complimentary Tequila & Tacos for cautionary tales with a kick.
Learning Objectives:
Identify common local design schemes that often lead to serious building issues.
Understand the underlying physics behind these problems.
Learn how to design new projects that avoid these pitfalls.
Explore practical repair solutions for existing issues.
Decks & Balconies: Roofs You Can Walk On
Thursday, October 16th 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Elevated decks over living spaces are a hallmark of Fairfield County homes - but so are the leaks and failures that often follow. This seminar dives into why these issues happen and how to prevent them. From cracked tiles and efflorescence to water staining, condensation, and loose railings, Foster will cover the problems that keep homeowners, builders, and architects awake at night. You’ll leave with actionable solutions and a clearer understanding of how to design and build decks and balconies that last.
An al fresco feel with complimentary Rose and Skewers for these outdoor living structures.
Learning Objectives:
Design pedestrian decks and balconies that function as roofs while meeting prescriptive code requirements.
Develop effective drainage schemes for elevated decks and balconies.
Create durable, leak-free roofing, waterproofing, and flashing systems.
Design secure, waterproof railing attachment schemes at the edges of decks and balconies.